Business rates

Edinburgh Chamber spearheaded a campaign in June 2005 to 'level the playing field' by getting Business Rates in Scotland set to the same level as England. Scottish businesses are currently paying over 8% more than English rates.

Edinburgh Chamber spearheaded a campaign in June 2005 to 'level the playing field' by getting Business Rates in Scotland set to the same level as England. Scottish businesses are currently paying over 8% more than English rates.

In September Enterprise Minister Nichol Stephen announced the playing field would in fact be levelled. A fantastic success for the Chamber lobbying on a national issue! This will save Edinburgh businesses nearly £30m per year by 2007 and nationally business will be over £200m better off.

We will continue to campaign on other issues allied to the business tax burden.

Members' evidence and views formed a key part of this campaign, so further contributions are always welcome.

Documents

Business Rates Policy Briefing June 2010 - briefing notes prepared for a Scottish Chambers of Commerce meeting with the Finance Secretary, John Swinney, on 28 June 2010. The meeting was held to discuss the issue of business rates following the Scottish Government's decision to abandon Transitional Relief in this year's revaluation, and to make further progress towards securing the best possible deal for business rate payers in Scotland.

Level the Playing Field (PDF) - a speech given to launch the Chamber's campaign in June 2005.